Name: Italian Sub Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 1 can cooking spray or vegetable oil (for pan); 2 (8-oz.) tubes crescent roll dough; 1 cup shredded Asiago (divided); 8 oz. thinly sliced mortadella or ham; 4 oz. sliced provolone; 4 oz. thinly sliced salami; 1.5 cups giardiniera mix or muffuletta mix (drained and patted dry); 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil; 2 tsp. white sesame seeds; 1 tsp. dried oregano

Introduction to Italian Sub Squares

Why Italian Sub Squares are the Ultimate Homemade Snack

If you’re looking for an exciting way to elevate your snack game, Italian sub squares might just be your new best friend. These delectable bites pack all the classic flavors of an Italian sub sandwich into a convenient, shareable format. With layers of savory meats, oozy cheese, and a touch of zesty giardiniera, they are sure to please a crowd—whether it's game day, a picnic, or a cozy night in with friends.

What makes these squares truly stand out is their versatility. You can easily customize them with your favorite ingredients. Swap out chicken ham for turkey bacon or beef for a touch of richness. Feel free to add fresh veggies for extra crunch or a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a gourmet twist. Allowing for this personal flair ensures everyone will find a version they adore!

Additionally, the simplicity of the crescent roll dough means you don’t have to be a culinary whiz to create an impressive dish. In just over an hour, you’ll have a plate of Italian sub squares that look as good as they taste. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the full recipe and make some delicious memories!

Ingredients for Italian Sub Squares

Key Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating Italian Sub Squares is simple, and the ingredients are deliciously straightforward. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this savory treat:

Cooking spray or vegetable oil for greasing the pan
2 (8-oz.) tubes of crescent roll dough
1 cup of shredded Asiago cheese (about 4 oz.), divided
8 oz. of thinly sliced chicken ham
4 oz. of sliced provolone cheese
4 oz. of thinly sliced salami
1 ½ cups of giardiniera or muffuletta mix, drained and patted dry
1 Tbsp. of extra-virgin olive oil
2 tsp. of white sesame seeds
1 tsp. of dried oregano

These ingredients combine to create a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress.

Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor

Want to take your Italian Sub Squares to the next level? Consider adding layers of flavor with ingredients like roasted red peppers, pepperoncini, or even a sprinkle of red chili flakes for a bit of heat. Fresh basil or arugula can elevate the freshness too. By mixing and matching these optional ingredients, you can customize the dish to fit your personal taste preferences. Dive into the world of flavors and make this recipe your own! For more ingredient inspiration, check out Serious Eats.

Preparing Italian Sub Squares

Creating Italian sub squares is a delicious venture that combines convenience with flavor, perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners. Let’s dive into the preparation steps to ensure you produce a tasty dish that will impress your friends and family!

Get Your Baking Pan Ready

Before we start mixing flavors, we need to prepare our baking pan. Grab a 13"-by-9" baking dish and give it a good coat of cooking spray or vegetable oil. This step is essential as it prevents the dough from sticking and ensures that your Italian sub squares come out perfectly golden and intact.

Bake the Bottom Layer of Crescent Dough

Once your pan is prepped, it’s time to work with the first can of crescent roll dough. Open it up, unroll it into the baking dish, and pinch together any seams if necessary. If it doesn’t perfectly fit the pan, don’t worry—just stretch the dough gently to cover the bottom. Bake this layer in your preheated oven at 350°F for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until it becomes lightly golden. After baking, let it cool for about 5 minutes. This will help develop a sturdy base for the Italian sub squares.

Layer the Delicious Fillings

Now, the fun part—layering all those mouthwatering fillings! Start by sprinkling half a cup of shredded Asiago cheese evenly over the baked bottom layer, leaving about a half-inch border around the edges. Then, add your chosen fillings: thinly sliced chicken ham, provolone cheese, salami, and if you're feeling adventurous, a mix of giardiniera or muffuletta blend. The colorful layers not only look fantastic but also promise a burst of flavor in every bite. Finish this layer with the remaining Asiago cheese to create a melty topping.

Cover and Seal with Remaining Dough

With all your fillings in place, it's time to unroll the second tube of crescent dough. Carefully cover the filling, pinching the edges of both the top and bottom dough together to create a secure seal. Don’t skip this step! A sealed dish will keep all the delicious flavors well-contained. To add a gourmet touch, brush a bit of extra-virgin olive oil on top and finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and oregano. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a bit of crunch to your Italian sub squares.

Bake to Golden Perfection

Time to take your assembled dish back to the oven! Bake your Italian sub squares for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dough is fully cooked. You might want to cover it with foil if it starts to brown too quickly. Once it’s done, resist the urge to dive in immediately. Let it cool for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and to make slicing easier.

With these steps, you’ll have delicious Italian sub squares that are sure to be a hit. Trust me; the combination of flavors and textures is absolutely irresistible! Ready to serve? Enjoy each mouthwatering bite!

Variations on Italian Sub Squares

Vegetarian Options for the Health-Conscious

If you’re looking to make your Italian sub squares a healthy yet delicious choice, consider swapping in roasted veggies or even grilled portobello mushrooms in place of the meat. Cover them with a blend of mozzarella and ricotta for a creamy, satisfying bite. You can also add some fresh spinach or arugula for a peppery kick, enhancing both flavor and nutrition. A drizzle of balsamic glaze right before serving can elevate these squares to gourmet status!

Spicy Kick with Jalapeños or Pepperoncini

For those who crave a bit of heat, adding jalapeños or pepperoncini to your Italian sub squares can make all the difference. Simply chop these spicy peppers and mix them in with the layers of meat and cheese. If you prefer a milder kick, go with sweet banana peppers instead—they lend a flavorful twist without overwhelming your taste buds. Trust me, your guests will appreciate the extra zing!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Italian Sub Squares

Perfecting the Crescent Dough

To achieve that delightful, golden crust for your Italian sub squares, make sure you unroll the dough evenly without stretching it too thin. Pinch any seams together to prevent leaks during baking. If you find your dough isn't fitting the pan perfectly, don’t hesitate to give it a gentle stretch. A pre-bake of about 8 to 10 minutes is crucial; it sets a solid base that holds all those delicious layers together. Consider using a silicone baking mat or parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

Creative Serving Ideas

These Italian sub squares are perfect for parties or casual get-togethers. Serve them alongside a crisp salad or some homemade marinara for dipping. You can also cut the squares into smaller bite-sized pieces for easy snacking during game nights or movie marathons. For a twist, add some spicy pepperoncini to the filling for a kick or use a variety of cheeses for a unique flavor profile. Pairing your squares with a refreshing mocktail can elevate the entire experience! Check out this mocktail recipe for options.

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own!

Serving Suggestions for Italian Sub Squares

Pairing with Dips and Sides

Italian sub squares are delightful on their own, but they become even more satisfying when paired with the right dips and sides. Consider serving them with a zesty marinara sauce or a creamy Italian dressing for dipping. A fresh green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette can add brightness, while crispy garlic bread complements the savory flavors perfectly. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a homemade hummus or a roasted red pepper dip to introduce a new taste element!

Ideal Occasions for Serving

These Italian sub squares are versatile enough to shine at virtually any gathering. They're perfect for game days, birthday parties, or casual get-togethers with friends. You can easily make them ahead of time for easy serving. Hosting a picnic or a potluck? These squares are sure to be a hit! Their robust flavors and easy, mess-free serving make them ideal for family reunions or even a cozy movie night at home. The only question is, how many squares can you handle?

Time Breakdown for Italian Sub Squares

Preparation Time

Getting started on your Italian Sub Squares is a breeze! You'll need about 15 minutes to gather your ingredients and get everything prepped. This includes unrolling the crescent dough and layering your savory fillings.

Baking Time

Once you've layered all those delicious ingredients, it’s time to bake. You'll spend about 30 to 35 minutes in the oven, allowing everything to meld together into a golden, cheesy treat. Keep an eye on the dough to prevent over-browning!

Total Time

From start to finish, you’re looking at a total of 1 hour and 25 minutes, which includes cooling time. Consider this a perfect weekend project or a wonderful dish to impress your friends at a potluck!

Curious about other ways to enjoy Italian flavors? Check out this article on traditional Italian meats. It might give you some great ideas for variations! Also, don't forget to look up easy side dishes that complement your Italian Sub Squares perfectly. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Italian Sub Squares

When diving into these delicious Italian Sub Squares, it's helpful to know how they fit into your meal plan. Here’s a quick overview:

Calories per Serving

Each serving of Italian Sub Squares contains approximately 280 calories. Perfect for a hearty snack or as part of your meal!

Protein Content

You’ll get about 15 grams of protein in each serving, thanks to the delightful mix of meats and cheese housed within the crispy crescent dough.

Sodium Levels

Keep an eye on sodium, as each serving has around 700 mg. While it’s part of what makes these squares satisfying, you might want to balance it with some fresh veggies or a light salad.

By keeping these nutritional facts in mind, you can enjoy your Italian Sub Squares while making informed choices. For tips on healthy sides to accompany your dish, check out our guide on building a balanced plate!

FAQs about Italian Sub Squares

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for Asiago and provolone, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Options like mozzarella, fontina, or even a sharp cheddar can add a unique flair to your Italian Sub Squares. Just remember to keep the total cheese amount roughly the same for the best texture.

How long do the leftovers last?

Leftover Italian Sub Squares can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Reheating them in the oven will help maintain their delicious, crispy texture. If you're like me and love meal prepping, these squares make for a quick lunch option!

Can I freeze Italian Sub Squares?

Yes, freezing is a fantastic option! You can freeze fully cooked Italian Sub Squares in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven. They'll taste almost as good as fresh! For more tips on freezing dishes, check out this guide from The Kitchn.

Conclusion on Italian Sub Squares

Why You’ll Love Making These at Home

Making Italian Sub Squares at home is a delightful experience that brings family and friends together. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also allow you to customize flavors to fit your taste! Enjoy the comforting layers of meat and cheese with a crunchy topping—perfect for any occasion.